Pankaj Dheer’s final journey: Sidharth Malhotra, Arbaaz Khan and others pay their last respects

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, known for his powerful performance as Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat (1988), passed away on October 15 in Mumbai. He was 68. His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Santacruz at 4:30 pm, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to bid him farewell.

Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Mika Singh, and several other film personalities arrived to pay their last respects. Salman, dressed in a plain olive-green shirt, looked visibly emotional as he met the Dheer family. Actor Sidharth Malhotra too was spotted at the crematorium, quietly offering his condolences.

Actor Mukesh Rishi stood among the mourners, joining others from the film fraternity who came together to remember the veteran performer. Pankaj Dheer’s son, actor Nikitin Dheer, was seen accompanying the ambulance carrying his father’s body to its final resting place, visibly heartbroken.

According to reports, Pankaj Dheer had been battling cancer for a long time. His close friend and CINTAA member, Amit Behl, confirmed the news earlier in the day. “With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing of our Trust’s erstwhile Chairman and CINTAA’s former Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025,” read the official statement from the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association.

Pankaj Dheer became a household name with Mahabharat, where his portrayal of Karna left a lasting mark on Indian television. He later appeared in several popular shows like Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, and Kanoon, often praised for his commanding screen presence.

His passing marks the end of an era for television audiences who grew up watching him on screen. Though he’s gone, his performances—especially as Karna—remain deeply etched in the memories of millions.